2013 Finalist National Medal for Museum and Library Service

Collection Highlights

Parure
ca. 1820
1920.11-17
Cut steel

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Luce Center

Henry Clay Presidential Campaign Medal

Henry Clay Presidential Campaign Medal
Henry Clay Presidential Campaign Medal
Title
Henry Clay Presidential Campaign Medal
Date 
1824
Related People 
Depicted: Henry Clay
Medium 
Brass
Dimensions 
diameter: 1 1/8 in. ( 2.8 cm )
Description 
Brass struck medal with obverse showing draped bust of Henry Clay facing right with legend: "HENRY CLAY AND THE AMERICAN SYSTEM." Reverse bears inscription within laurel wreath: "UNITED/WE/STAND."
Object Number 
INV.3598
Marks 
Inscription: obverse, below bust truncation: "I B C"
Gallery Label 
Henry Clay (1777-1852), American statesman, was secretary of state under John Quincy Adams and an unsuccessful candidate for presidency in 1824, 1832, and 1844. He was one of the most popular and influential political leaders in American history. This medal seems to be an early example of presidential campaign medals, most probably dating to 1824.
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.